Breaking Barriers In Tradition: How Barun Sarma Empowered Assam’s First All-Women Vyas Ojapali Troupe.

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Guwahati, Assam, 26th of July 2026 : Assam’s folk culture is not merely a relic of the past; it is a vibrant, living stream of our spiritual and social existence. Notably, an inimitable and vital component of this rich folk culture is the Vyas Ojapali (also known as Vyah-Gowa Ojapali) of the Darrang district. One of Assam’s oldest folk cultures, Vyas Ojapali is far more than a traditional dance or musical performance; it is a priceless folk heritage deeply woven into the state’s spiritual, literary, and social fabric. For decades, this art form has propagated religious epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Bhagavata to the masses through a captivating blend of music, drama, and storytelling. It stands as an unbroken, continuous pursuit of wisdom within Assamese society.

To keep any timeless art form alive, it requires the sacrifice and lifelong devotion of dedicated practitioners. Among the artistes who have carried the grand heritage of Vyas Ojapali in their very blood and breath, dedicating their entire lives to its preservation, the name of Barun Dev Sarma stands out as truly exemplary. Hailing from No. 2 Ghorasal, a rural residential locality and village within the Sipajhar revenue circle of Darrang district, Sarma views Vyas Ojapali neither as a mere profession nor a livelihood; to him, it is a hereditary, spiritual pursuit of the soul.

The family of veteran Vyas Sangeet artiste Barun Dev Sarma has been deeply intertwined with the practice of Vyas Oja for generations. His grandfather, father, and Sarma himself have tirelessly nurtured this heritage, proving that folk art is not merely an expression of individual talent, but a holistic cultural heritage carried by the soul of a community. In this arduous journey, dedicated artistes like Gokul Sarma and teacher Jiten Sarma have equally devoted themselves, preserving the distinct identity of Darrang’s Vyas Oja. Their unwavering commitment continues to safeguard this profound tradition from losing its way.

For generations, societal prejudices and superstitions kept women from performing on the Vyas Oja stage. However, true visionaries have the power to break through the darkness of outdated traditions. Barun Dev Sarma took that historic and courageous step. Through his singular efforts, guidance, and inspiration, the very first all-female Ojapali troupe in Assam’s cultural history, comprising nine young women, officially debuted as the “Maa Parijati Byasini Ojapali Dal” on July 20, 2023. Mentored by Barun Dev Sarma, a lifelong practitioner of Vyas Oja hailing from Byaspara, Sipajhar, this troupe of young women has successfully navigated the path of transformation while overcoming societal hurdles. Initially, they faced a fierce storm of societal backlash, criticism, and objections, which regrettably led three young women to leave the group. Yet, Barun Dev Sarma remained completely unfazed in his resolve. Embracing the profound belief that folk culture is not the exclusive domain of any particular gender or class, but rather the fundamental right to self-expression and cultural identity for every individual, he empowered women artistes by providing them with continuous training and stage exposure, thereby fostering a progressive new mindset.

Led by Oja Upasana Sarma, the group currently features Jina Priyam Sarma as the Dainapali, with Jyotismita Sarma, Torali Sarma, Kavyashree Sarma, and Dharitri Sarma dedicatedly serving as the Palis. Defying all odds, this all-women Vyas Ojapali troupe began its journey at the Durga Puja mandap in Byaspara and has since earned widespread popularity and immense respect by performing across various parts of the state. Last year, the group won accolades in the Folk Music (Vyas Oja category) at the State Kala Sangam held at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra. Adding to their achievements, they were also selected to perform Vyas Ojapali at the prestigious National Kala Utsav held in Pune last December. Their achievement clearly proves that with the right opportunities and proper guidance, women can carry forward our ancient traditions with equal grace and glory. Today, Barun Dev Sarma is no longer just a traditional Oja or performer; he has established himself as a dedicated custodian, teacher, and devoted practitioner of the Vyas Oja tradition. His generational legacy, cultural leadership, and relentless efforts to guide the younger generation are steering this invaluable Assamese folk culture toward a bright and empowered future.